Health Education - The Daily Advocate · HMB2 2 Thursday, July 27, 2017 HEALTH & WELLNESS Greenville Daily Advocate K idney disease is a widespread issue made all the more disconcerting

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Snore ReliefBreathing easier about CPAP treatment

The Daily AdvocateJuly 2017A Special Supplement to

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Solving the PuzzleMyths and misconceptions about autism spectrum disorder

Health EducationWhat are biologic medicines?

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HEALTH & WELLNESS Greenville Daily Advocate2 Thursday, July 27, 2017

Kidney disease is a widespread issue made all the more disconcerting by the fact that many people are

unaware they have it. According to the National Kidney Foundation, 26 million American adults have kidney disease, and most don’t know it. And the problem of kidney disease is not exclusive to the United States, as the Canadian Kidney Foundation notes that the number of Canadians being treated for kidney failure has tripled over the last quarter century.Healthy kidneys are something many people take for granted. But those who want to do everything they can to keep their kidneys healthy can consider the following

tips, courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic.

Stay hydrated, but avoid overhydration. Many people are familiar with the benefits of drinking water each day, and adequate hydration definitely promotes healthy kidneys. But overhydrating has not been proven to enhance kidney function. The Cleveland Clinic recommends adults drink between four and six glasses of water per day.

Exercise. Regular exercise benefits various parts of the human body, including the kidneys. High blood pressure and diabetes are two of the biggest risk factors for kidney

disease, and regular exercise can reduce a person’s risk of both conditions. However, overexertion can strain the kidneys, so adults who exercise, especially novices who need to improve their conditioning, should avoid going too hard at the gym.

Speak with a physician before taking vitamin supplements or herbal remedies. Vitamin supplements and herbal remedies have become very popular in the 21st century, but excessive supplementation can harm the kidneys. Discuss any supplements or herbals remedies with a physician before taking them.

Quit smoking. Just as exercise benefits the body in myriad ways, smoking harms the body in myriad ways. Smoking decreases the blood flow in the kidneys, decreasing their ability to function at optimal capacity. Smoking also increases a person’s risk of high blood pressure and

cancer of the kidneys.

Eat healthy. A healthy diet decreases a person’s risk for high blood pressure and diabetes. Adhering to a healthy diet and controlling portion sizes can help control weight and blood pressure and contribute to healthy kidneys as well.

Get screened. Adults who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes should make sure their physicians screen for kidney dysfunction during routine appointments. Learn more about kidney disease at www.kidney.org.

How to promote healthy kidneys

Staying hydrated while avoiding overhydration is one way for men and women to protect their kidneys.

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HEALTH & WELLNESSGreenville Daily Advocate Thursday, July 27, 2017 3

Thanks to increased awareness about the perils of exposure to

ultraviolet rays and skin damage, a greater number of people routinely apply sunscreen before spending time outdoors. But while people take

steps to prevent sunburns, skin cancer and premature aging, they may fail to consider that UV rays also can damage their eyes.Just as people protect their skin from the sun, so, too, should they safeguard their eyes. Prevent Blindness America warns that the sun is comprised of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays may hurt central vision by damaging the macula, or a part of the retina at the back of the eye. UVB rays typically affect the front part of the eye or the lens and cornea. The following are some common eye conditions that can be linked to exposure to UV rays.

PhotokeratitisExcessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time can cause photokeratitis, which is equivalent to a sunburn of the eye. Photokeratitis may occur after spending long hours at the beach or skiing without proper eye protection. UVB rays cause photokeratitis, and these rays can burn the cornea, potentially causing pain and temporary vision loss.

Macular degenerationAccording to the American Optometric Association,

macular degeneration is a deterioration of the part of the retina that is responsible for sharp, central vision.

In addition to UV rays, chronic exposure to shorter-wavelength visible blue and violet light can be harmful to the retina. The sun and many artificial light sources, such

as LEDs and smartphones, emit blue light. Some blue light can be beneficial, but some can be harmful to the eyes. Lenses that absorb harmful blue light or block it can prevent retinal damage.

PterygiumPterygium is a growth that forms on the outer portion of the eye, or the cornea and conjunctiva. The World Health Organization says that prolonged UV exposure can contribute to this condition. Pterygium may extend over the cornea and reduce vision, requiring surgical removal.

CataractsUV exposure also can contribute to the formation of cataracts. Prevent Blindness America says a cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, the part of the eye that focuses the light people see.

Sun protectionSunglasses should completely cover the eyes, including the skin on the eyelids and under the eye, to provide adequate protection for the eyes. Wraparound frames will offer additional protection to those who spend a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight. The AOA says sunglasses should also do the following.

• Block out 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.

• Screen out between 75 and 90 percent of visible light.

• Have lenses that are perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection.

• Have lenses that are gray for proper color recognition.Consumers should speak with an eye doctor if they have additional questions about eye protection. Prescription lenses can be tinted and treated to offer UV protection.

Protect eyes from ultraviolet rays

A wide array of sunglasses can protect eyes from potentially damaging ultraviolet radiation.

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A relatively recent wave of medications has provided significant advances in treating a wide range

of illnesses, particularly those that are linked to auto-immune dysfunction or chronic ailments. Many people may be prescribed a biologic response modifier medicine at some point in their lives, and those who understand when and why such medications are prescribed may find such knowledge calms their nerves and reduces any confusion they might have about their conditions.

What are biologic response modifiers?Biologics are derived from animal products. First-generation biologic products included things like vaccines and blood components. However, a newer wave of biologic medicines has come to market over the last decade or so. These medications are manufactured through biotechnology and are complex proteins, sugars, nucleic acids, or a combination of these substances that are created from living cells. Cells may

include yeast, bacteria or a widely used cell called CHO, which originated from hamsters in China. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration says biologics are often at the forefront of biomedical research and are continually evolving.

Why biologics are differentUnlike traditional medicines, which are largely made from chemical components that follow a strict recipe for manufacture, many biologics are complex mixtures that are not easily replicated. According to the resource Everyday Health, when biologics are made, a specific gene is isolated and inserted into the host cell’s DNA, where it will become permanent. The cell follows the instructions of the gene and how it was programmed and becomes a specifically functioning cell. This one reprogrammed cell is combined with others that have been made the same way. The entire process of biologic manufacturing is complex, requiring state-of-the-art knowledge. It also requires entirely new biotechnology facilities

and laboratories that employ top-notch scientists. These factors combine to contribute to the generally high price tag of biologic medications.

How biologics workAccording to WebMD, biologics are designed to inhibit specific components of the immune system that may cause a symptom of a disease. For example, in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the medication would suppress inflammation, which is a central feature of the disease. Biologics target specific parts of the immune system rather than broadly treating the body. Diseases that may be treated by biologics include rheumatoid

arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and even certain cancers.

Side effects of biologic medicinesBecause most biologics are administered intravenously, injection-site irritation can be a common side effect. Biologics also carry a risk of infection. According to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, because biologics target the immune system, there is a risk for serious infection or disease. Biologic medicines continue to evolve and can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions for which no other treatments are available or effective.

What are biologic medicines?

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Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, is a class of neurological conditions present from early

childhood and is often identified through difficulty communicating, using language and understanding abstract concepts. The organization Autism Speaks says that an estimated one out of 42 boys and one in 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States. Autism is now diagnosed in roughly one out of every 68 children in Canada, and has become the fastest growing and most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder in that country. ASD is estimated to affect tens of millions of people worldwide. But even though ASD is widely recognized, studied and discussed, myths and misconceptions about the disorder continue to circulate. Shedding light on how ASD can help caregivers, peers and anyone who routinely interacts with individuals who fall on the spectrum. ASD is not a single disorder Although autism and ASD are

often used interchangeably, these names do not define one specific disorder. ASD is now an umbrella term that includes autism, Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, and Rett syndrome, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, 5th edition (DSM-5) revised in 2013. ASD is often perceived through communication deficits that can include misinterpreted or nonverbal interactions. Individuals also may have challenges in bonding/friendship development.

People with ASD can understand and express emotionAlthough communication troubles may be present, those with ASD can and do feel emotions. But they may not be able to express these emotions the same way as others do. Also, just because someone has ASD doesn’t mean he or she is unable to understand the emotions of others. Rather, the person may need

Myths and misconceptions about autism spectrum disorderfirm and direct indications of how another person is feeling to understand. Reading body language or tone of voice alone may be inadequate to someone with ASD. School-aged children can learn from this, recognizing that someone with ASD may want to have friends and socialize, but he or she may not know how to facilitate these engagements.

ASD does not produce carbon-copy symptomsCharacteristics of ASD can vary widely from person to person. One person’s limitations may not be present in another.

ASD is not just a children’s diseaseThere is no cure for ASD, and symptoms may not be reversible, which means that autism is a lifelong condition. Children who are diagnosed will grow into young people and adults with autism. Many treatments and therapies are geared toward early intervention, but adults can benefit from continued work as well. Adults with ASD can be successful and live independent lives. Autism spectrum disorder is more prevalent than ever. However, despite the recognition of ASD, many people do not understand the nuances involved with a diagnosis.

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The American Institute of Stress notes that various disorders, both emotional and physical, have

been linked to stress. Such disorders include depression, stroke, hypertension, and anxiety, among others. In its 2015 Stress in AmericaTM survey, the American Psychological Association found that money, stress and family responsibilities are the three most common stressors. While the symptoms of stress are uncomfortable and potentially very dangerous, the APA notes that such indicators also serve as a warning from the body that it needs maintenance and extra care. The following are some of the ways the body might be telling adults to step back and make an effort to relieve stress.

Headaches, muscle tension, neck or

back pain: Some headaches or aches and pains might be mere nuisances or indicative of issues unrelated to stress. But when such symptoms are accompanied by stress, this could be the body’s way of alerting men and women that the stress is approaching unhealthy levels. The AIS notes that when a person is under stress, his or her muscles tense up. The contraction of these muscles for extended periods of time can trigger tension headaches and migraines, among other things.

Chest pains and/or rapid heartbeat: Chest pains and rapid heartbeat may indicate various problems, including stress. This happens when the body is stressed because stress causes the nervous system to signal the adrenal glands to release hormones that make the heart beat faster and increase blood pressure.

Difficulty falling or staying asleep: Men and women who are feeling stressed out and also experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep should consult their physicians about ways to alleviate that stress. When strategies to alleviate stress are successful, adults should be able to return to normal, healthy sleeping patterns.

Increased frequency of colds: Stress can attack the body’s immune system, making it increasingly vulnerable to colds. The AIS also notes that a weakened immune system also makes the body more susceptible to additional viral disorders, including herpes, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Loss of appetite or overeating: Stress

can affect the gastrointestinal system in various ways, including influencing appetite. While not all problems with appetite are indicative of a body that is overstressed, stress can prompt some people to eat much more than they normally do, while others may eat considerably less than they normally would.

Diarrhea or constipation: Another indicator that stress is compromising the gastrointestinal system is diarrhea or constipation. Again, while these problems are not exclusive to sufferers of stress, when a person is under stress, this can affect which nutrients the body can successfully absorb and how quickly food is metabolized. This can cause some people to experience diarrhea, while others may be constipated.

Signs of stress that

must be addressed

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Simple ways to alleviate back painFew health problems are

as prevalent as back pain. The American Chiropractic

Association says that 50 percent of working Americans admit to having back pain symptoms each year. Bone and Joint Health Canada states that as much as 80 percent of people experience back pain at least once in their lifetime. Back pain can be so significant that it results in a loss of function that impedes daily activities. In fact, according to the 2015 Global Burden of Disease report, back pain is the single leading cause of disability in most countries. Back pain can be a complex issue. According to data complied by TheGoodBody.com, only one in 10 people learns the primary cause of their pain. That’s because many things, including muscle sprains or joint irritation, can contribute to back pain. Other factors that may contribute to back pain include arthritis, stress, obesity, or diseases of the internal organs. Each of these issues can make it challenging to uncover the culprit behind back pain. Ruling out degenerative diseases can be a first step in treating back pain. Doctors also may ask their patients about their level of physical activity. Doctors may want to know if patients suffering back pain engage in activities involving repetitive movements to determine if their back pain can be traced to these activities. Some common factors contribute to back pain, and addressing these issues may bring about relief.

Strengthen core muscles. Poor muscle tone, especially in the back and abdominal muscles, may result in back pain. Engaging in activities that strengthen the core can help strengthen the area, offering more support to the back. A doctor, physical therapist or fitness instructor may guide you in exercises, such as planks or abdominal crunches, that can strengthen the core.

Get up and move. A sedentary lifestyle can be a major contributor to back pain. Nearly half of Americans who experience back pain are desk workers who spend the majority of their time sitting, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Qi Spine, a clinic that gathered data from 1,300 people who said they deal with spine-related pain, found that half the participants with sedentary jobs had lower back pain. Standing, moving around and taking breaks from the desk can help alleviate pain.

Lose weight. The spine is vulnerable to effects of obesity. Extra weight in the abdomen may pull the pelvis forward and strain the lower back, states the American Obesity Association. Losing weight can reduce that strain on the lower back, thereby reducing pain.Back pain is a frequent complaint and compels many people to visit their doctors. Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and strengthening core muscles can go a long way toward keeping the back healthy and pain-free.

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Technology has simplified life in a myriad of ways. Thanks to their tablets and smartphones, many people now have a wealth of information at their

disposal 24 hours a day, seven days week. Computers, tablets and smartphones can now be seen just about everywhere, so it’s no wonder that studies have shown that as much as 90 percent of computer users have reported symptoms of computer vision syndrome, or CVS. Sometimes referred to as “digital eye strain,” CVS is, according to the American Optometric Association, an umbrella term used to describe a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Manhattan Vision Associates notes that such problems can arise in people who spend two or more hours daily in front of a screen, a qualifier that means just about anyone, from working professionals to children, is susceptible to CVS.

What are the symptoms of CVS?No two individuals are the same, and some people who spend significant amounts of time may never develop CVS. But those that do may experience the following symptoms.

Eyestrain: When people spend ample time staring at screens, the muscles of their inner eyes can strain and tighten and cause eye irritation. This can result in fatigue and pain.

Blurred vision: Blurred vision can compromise a person’s ability to see small details. That loss of sharpness can make it hard to focus on a screen for a significant amount of time. In addition, vision can blur as people go back and forth between their keyboards and screens or multiple screens, as many people do while simultaneously working on a computer and using their smartphones.

Headaches: Many people develop headaches after staring at screens for prolonged periods of time. That’s because the brightness and contrast of a screen can produce an indirect glare that’s especially hard on the eyes.

Dry eyes: People do not blink as often when staring at screens as they do when they are not looking at screens. As a result, people are vulnerable to dry eyes when staring at screens, as blinking is one of the ways the eyes replenish moisture.

Can CVS be prevented?While some people may be inclined to accept CVS as a side effect of living in the 21st century, there are ways to prevent CVS.

Take frequent breaks. The AOA recommend that people alleviate digital eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule. This rule advises taking 20 second breaks to stare at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.

Reposition your computer screen. The AOA notes that

the optimal location for computer screens is between 15 and 20 degrees below eye level, or about four to five inches, as measured from the center of the screen. In addition, position the screen so it is between 20 and 28 inches from your eyes.

Avoid glare. Computer screens also should be positioned to avoid glare from lighting and windows. Draw blinds or drapes if sun is shining in on the screen, and opt for low wattage light bulbs in desk lamps.

Blink more. Make a concerted effort to blink more throughout the day so your eyes remain as moist as possible. The average time people spend staring at screens continues to rise, making CVS a legitimate concern for adults and children alike. Learn more about CVS and how to prevent it at www.aoa.org.

Safeguard your eyes

against computer vision syndrome

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Many people visit their dentists and learn they have a tooth that requires a crown. In many instances, dental

crowns are necessary for proper tooth care.Crowns were once widely referred to as “caps.” A crown is a permanent cover for a tooth that would otherwise require a very large filling after dental decay has been removed. Crowns also may be used to repair cracked or broken teeth so that extraction is not necessary. Sometimes crowns are used for cosmetic modifications or to hold a dental bridge in place. The crown itself can be made from different materials, like stainless steel, gold or metallic alloy, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and resin. A dentist will determine which material will work best depending on the application and tooth location.

Understanding your appointment(s)Crowns are typically installed in two appointments. The first appointment requires prep work so the tooth can hold the crown. This is typically a painless procedure, and one in which the dentist will anesthetize the tooth and gum tissue

and then file down the tooth along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown covering. If the tooth was decayed or insubstantial, the dentist may have to “build up” the tooth instead of filing it down. Again, these determinations are made by the dentist who has the expertise to gauge how much workable tooth is left. Once the tooth has been prepared, an impression will be made of the bite area. That’s because the permanent crown will be fabricated in a laboratory and the fit/color will need to be exact for comfort — and also to ensure that bacteria and food debris do not get caught between the crown and tooth. The final component is a temporary cap that will keep the prepared tooth clean. This is molded in the office and will be worn only until the custom-made crown is ready. When the permanent crown is delivered, the patient will return to the office to have it checked for fit and then cemented into place.

Full and partial crownsA partial crown may be used if only a portion of the tooth needs to be covered. Dentists will often rely on full crowns to get maximum coverage and strength.

Cost factorCrowns can be expensive. According to the resource CostHelper, crowns can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on the material used and the patient’s insurance coverage. Dental insurance may cover a predetermined percentage of the cost when the crown is medically necessary, but insurance may not cover anything if the procedure is only cosmetic. It’s always a good idea for patients to express their concerns and ask questions about crowns prior to starting the procedure. Understanding the potential out-of-pocket costs is essential as well. Dental crowns can last several years and represent the best way to salvage a tooth that is cracked or damaged.

Exploring dental crowns

Individuals visit the doctor for many different reasons. Although serious illnesses or acute medical care may be seen as the primary reasons behind doctor visits, a relatively recent study from The Mayo Clinic suggests otherwise. In 2013, data published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings uncovered that most people visit the doctor for skin disorders, such as acne or dermitis. In

the United States, 42.7 percent of the doctor visits studied were for skin ailments. Skin ailments were followed by joint disorders, back problems, cholesterol, and upper respiratory conditions. The group BackCareCanada says 80 percent of individuals experience pain in their spine at some point in their lives, and medical expenditures with respect to lower back pain are estimated at between $6 and 12 billion annually in Canada.

Did you know?

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People who routinely toss, turn, snore, and wake up feeling less than refreshed in the morning may

have more to worry about than simply not getting a good’s night sleep. They may be experiencing a relatively common yet largely undiagnosed condition that can contribute to long-term risk for various

diseases. Sleep disorders have become a significant health issue. Sleep apnea, which affects an estimated 22 million people in the United States, can contribute to difficulty sleeping. Sleep apnea causes periods defined by an inability to breathe. The American Sleep Apnea Association says sleep apnea comes in three

types: obstructive, wherein a blockage of the airway is usually caused by the collapse of the tongue or soft palate; central, when the brain fails to signal muscles to breathe; and complex, which is a combination of the two conditions. Over time, sleep apnea can be a risk factor for heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and other serious conditions, says the Cleveland Clinic. That is why symptoms that may begin as mildly agitating snoring sessions should be brought to a doctor’s attention. When sleep apnea is identified, one of the more successful treatments is widely referred to as “CPAP.”

According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is a treatment that uses mild air pressure to keep breathing airways open. A CPAP machine includes a mask or other device that fits over the nose or nose and mouth. The mask is connected to a machine via a tube, through which humidified air is blown. In cases of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, CPAP can reverse the complete blockages or narrowing of upper airways. When used correctly, CPAP may be the only treatment necessary to address OSA. Sleep apnea is usually confirmed by an overnight sleep study known as a polysomnogram, or PSG, conducted in a lab or at home. According to the American Sleep Apnea Society, a PSG is often followed by with a CPAP titration

study. Individuals who will require CPAP can choose among masks and equipment that meet the prescription and maximize comfort levels. Many people become accustomed to using CPAP devices right away, while others may need a month or more to transition. Problems like uncomfortable masks or air leakage can be tweaked until users grow comfortable. CPAP needs to be employed under the guidance of a sleep specialist. The mask and tube should be cleaned daily and be replaced when necessary for the treatment to work effectively. More information about sleep apnea and CPAP is available at www.amsleep.org.

Breathing easier about CPAP treatment

Sleep apnea very often is treated successfully with the use of a continuous positive airway pressure machine, often referred to as a CPAP.

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Health Education - The Daily Advocate · HMB2 2 Thursday, July 27, 2017 HEALTH & WELLNESS Greenville Daily Advocate K idney disease is a widespread issue made all the more disconcerting